A retrospective analysis of aetiology and management of epistaxis in a south-western Nigerian teaching hospital

Abstract

Background: Epistaxis is a common otolaryngological emergency and is often due to lesions within or around the nose and systemic conditions. Controlling epistaxis presents a challenge in the underdeveloped, resource-poor centres where there are limited facilities.

Objective: To describe the aetiopatogenesis of epistaxis in our hospitals.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of the cases of epistaxis managed at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile Ife, over a three-year period: January 2003 - through December, 2005. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical presentation and management of epistaxis was obtained from the hospital records both in the accident and emergency units and the ENT outpatient clinic.

Results: A total of 106 cases were managed during the period. The peak age incidence was in the 21-40-year group. There was a significant male preponderance, ratio 3.4:1. Trauma contributed to 75 (70.9%) of the cases managed. Maxillofacial injuries were the most common injury encountered (50.7%). This was mainly secondary to the road traffic accident (RTA). Malignant neoplasms were the second most common aetiological factor seen in this study while idiopathic causes were the third most common. There were two cases with systemic problems associated with renal failure. Nasal packing was adequate to control the epistaxis in most cases. Nasal packing was done with gloved finger cots and vasellinated gauze. Two patients (1.9%) had external carotid artery ligation. Eleven patients (10.4%) received blood transfusion.

Conclusion: Epistaxis is a common presentation of head and neck trauma. Non-surgical control of epistaxis (nasal packing) is adequate in many cases. Reducing the incidence of trauma from RTA will reduce the incidence of emergency epistaxis in our centers.